Item Description:
title
Declaring May as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Awareness Month - offered by Commissioner Edelson
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WHEREAS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease in which the brain loses its ability to control muscle movement, gradually impacting a person’s ability to walk, talk, eat, and breathe; and
WHEREAS, thousands of new ALS cases are diagnosed each year, and on average, every 90 minutes someone is diagnosed with ALS and another person loses their life to the disease; and
WHEREAS, individuals diagnosed with ALS typically face a life expectancy of only two to five years from diagnosis; and
WHEREAS, the causes of ALS remain largely unknown, and there is currently no cure; and
WHEREAS, military veterans are at a higher risk of developing ALS and dying from the disease than those who have not served; and
WHEREAS, access to new therapies, durable medical equipment, and communication technologies is critical to improving quality of life for people living with ALS; and
WHEREAS, clinical trials are essential to advancing treatment options, enhancing care, and supporting innovation in assistive technologies; and
WHEREAS, organizations such as the ALS Association play a vital role in funding research, supporting individuals and families, and working toward a future without ALS; and
WHEREAS, ALS Awareness Month provides an opportunity to increase public understanding, support those affected, and advance efforts to find a cure.
Resolution:
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners hereby proclaims the month of May 2026 as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Awareness Month in Hennepin County, and encourages all residents to raise awareness, support research, and stand in solidarity with individuals and families impacted by ALS
Recommendation from County Administrator: No Recommendation